Gaza Faces Famine: Israel Accused of Weaponizing Starvation Amidst Aid Blockade
Gaza is facing a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with widespread starvation threatening the population due to Israel's ongoing blockade and restrictions on aid. Reports indicate severe food shortages, rising prices, and a deliberate policy of starvation, with international organizations sounding the alarm about an imminent famine. Allegations are also made about disinformation campaigns aiming to deny the severity of the crisis.





Macron Hosts Syrian President al-Sharaa, Urges Protection of All Syrians, End to Sanctions
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa's visit to France marks his first trip to Europe since assuming power. Meeting with Emmanuel Macron, he faced calls to protect all Syrians and a push for lifting sanctions. Concerns about sectarian violence and extremist groups within Syria shadowed the visit, while Macron defended engagement and offered hope for easing sanctions.





Trump Praises Houthi 'Bravery' Despite Costly Disruptions, Civilian Casualties
President Trump's recent commendation of the Houthi rebels' 'bravery' has stirred controversy, given the group's involvement in disrupting global markets, costing nearly $1 trillion, and their ongoing attacks on ships in the Red Sea and missiles fired at Israel. Trump's remarks follow a U.S. bombing campaign aimed at curbing Houthi aggression, raising questions about the rationale behind his praise.





India Strikes Pakistan After Tourist Massacre, Raising Tensions in Kashmir Region
Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following Indian military strikes on Pakistani territory in response to a tourist massacre in Kashmir. Pakistan has vowed retaliation, raising concerns about a broader conflict, and the international community is urging restraint. Both countries have provided conflicting information on the number of casualties and downed aircraft.





Israeli Airstrikes on Gaza Kill Dozens, Displace Residents Amid Intensified Campaign
Recent Israeli airstrikes on Gaza have resulted in dozens of deaths, including civilians at shelters and a popular cafe. Israel is expanding its military operation, aiming to displace residents to the south and intensifying pressure on Hamas. The strikes have drawn international condemnation, with concerns raised about war crimes and the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza due to the blockade.





Trump to Decide on Persian Gulf Name During Middle East Trip; Iran Reacts
President Trump is weighing a decision to change the official U.S. designation of the Persian Gulf to either the Arabian Gulf or Gulf of Arabia. This consideration has prompted immediate backlash from Iranian officials, who view it as a hostile act and a disregard for historical and cultural significance. Trump plans to discuss the issue during his Middle East trip.





Xi Jinping Visits Moscow Amid Ukraine War, Complicating China-Europe Ties
Xi Jinping's visit to Moscow to meet with Vladimir Putin during the Victory Day celebrations highlights the complex geopolitical landscape. China aims to present itself as a global force for stability, but its support for Russia amid the Ukraine war strains its relationship with Europe and raises questions about its neutrality. The visit also occurs amidst trade tensions with the United States.





Israel Strikes Yemen After Houthi Attack on Tel Aviv; Iran Hails 'Victory'
Following a Houthi missile strike on Tel Aviv's Ben-Gurion Airport, Israel retaliated with strikes in Yemen, escalating tensions between the two. Iran has celebrated the Houthi attack as a major victory, while a potential US-brokered ceasefire faces uncertainty. The conflict raises concerns about regional stability and the broader impact of proxy warfare.





EU Aims to Ban Russian Gas Imports by 2027 Amidst Opposition
The European Union has announced a roadmap to eliminate Russian fossil fuels by 2027, facing both support and opposition from member states. The plan involves banning new gas contracts by 2025 and phasing out all imports by 2027. While overall EU reliance on Russian gas has decreased, some countries, like Hungary and Slovakia, are critical of the proposal, citing economic concerns and energy security risks.





Ukrainian Drone Attacks Disrupt Moscow Airspace, Stranding Thousands Ahead of Victory Day
Ukrainian drone attacks have caused massive flight disruptions in Moscow and targeted strategic defense industry facilities in Russia, leading to stranded passengers and impacting preparations for the Victory Day parade. The attacks, coupled with a proposed ceasefire, have heightened tensions between Russia and Ukraine, drawing international attention and condemnation.





India Launches 'Operation Sindoor' Missile Strikes into Pakistan, Citing Terror Threat
Following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India launched 'Operation Sindoor,' missile strikes targeting alleged terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Pakistan condemned the strikes as an act of war, reporting civilian casualties. International reactions varied, with some expressing concern and urging restraint, while others supported India's right to self-defense. Civilians in affected areas reported widespread fear and devastation.





US Halts Yemen Bombings After Houthi Ceasefire Pledge, Attacks on Israel to Continue
President Trump announced a ceasefire with the Houthis in Yemen, halting US bombing after receiving assurances that attacks on US ships would cease. Oman mediated the agreement. However, the Houthis stated they would continue attacks on Israel. The US airstrikes in Yemen began in March 2025 and have resulted in infrastructure damage and casualties.





Second US Navy Jet Lost at Sea from USS Harry S. Truman in Red Sea
A second F/A-18 Super Hornet from the USS Harry S. Truman crashed in the Red Sea due to an arrestment failure. The pilot and weapons systems officer ejected and sustained minor injuries. This incident follows another recent jet loss and previous issues for the Truman, including Houthi fire and a collision.


Cardinals Gather to Elect New Pope Amidst Francis' Legacy Debate
Catholic cardinals have gathered in Vatican City to elect a new Pope following Pope Francis's death. The conclave involves 133 cardinals who will vote in the Sistine Chapel. The process includes masses, oaths of secrecy, and voting rounds. The election occurs amidst debates about continuing or altering the course set by Pope Francis, particularly concerning social and economic issues, and the Church's global role.





India Strikes Pakistan After Tourist Massacre, Raising Tensions in Kashmir Region
Following a deadly attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, India launched strikes on alleged terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Pakistan claims to have retaliated by downing Indian aircraft, a claim India has not confirmed. This escalation has led to international concern and calls for restraint, as the two nuclear-armed neighbors face a heightened risk of conflict.





Ukraine Drone Attacks Target Moscow; Russia Accuses Kyiv Before WW2 Parade
Ukraine launched drone attacks targeting Moscow, resulting in temporary airport closures and accusations from Russia, days before the Victory Day parade commemorating the end of WW2. The attacks have heightened tensions, with both sides trading accusations and Ukraine warning international allies against participating in Moscow's celebrations. Meanwhile, Russia claims to have destroyed Ukrainian HIMARS using fiber-optic drones.





UK and India Sign Landmark Trade Deal Amid Global Tariff Tensions
The UK and India have agreed to a significant trade deal expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion. The agreement will see gradual reduction of tariffs, with the majority of goods becoming tariff-free within a decade. Key benefits include boosted exports for UK goods like whisky and cars, exemptions from National Insurance for certain workers, and reduced vulnerability to global trade tensions.





EU Aims to Ban Russian Gas Imports by 2027, Faces Resistance
The European Union is set to ban Russian gas, oil, and nuclear fuel imports by 2027, aiming to cut off funding for Russia's war in Ukraine and bolster EU sovereignty. While dependence has decreased since 2021, challenges remain, including resistance from countries like Hungary and Slovakia. The plan involves phasing out existing contracts and securing alternative energy sources.





Gaza Faces Catastrophic Humanitarian Crisis: Blockade Leads to Starvation and Aid Restrictions
Gaza is facing a catastrophic humanitarian crisis due to an ongoing Israeli blockade that has severely restricted the entry of essential supplies. Malnutrition rates are soaring, especially among children, with limited access to food, medicine, and fuel. International organizations are struggling to deliver aid, and a new Israeli plan to control aid distribution is facing widespread criticism.





Israel Strikes Yemen's Sanaa Airport, Disables It Following Houthi Attack
Following a Houthi missile strike near Tel Aviv's airport, Israel launched retaliatory strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, including Sanaa International Airport and the port of Al-Hudaydah. The IDF claims to have fully disabled the airport. These actions mark a significant escalation between Israel and the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who have vowed further attacks. The U.S. has also increased its military activity against the Houthis.




