Concerns for ‘declining’ fur seal spotted at Cooks River in inner Sydney
Long-nosed fur seal seen on banks of waterway in city’s inner west similar to those occasionally found outside Sydney Opera HouseFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastA seal has been spotted in an inner western Sydney river, prompting a response from wildlife rescue teams who worry it may be in poor health.However the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) said there were no obvious health concerns, and they were keeping track of the animal’s movements. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Politics live: Penny Wong warns Australians of ‘serious travel disruptions’ due to Iran conflict; NSW to review hospital maintenance after outbreaks of mould and bird lice
This blog is now closedPauline Hanson censured over Muslim comments but only two Coalition senators back motionGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastJoyce says petrol prices will increase due to conflictSpeaking with Tanya Plibersek on a Sunrise panel this morning, One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce says Australia should focus on building up fuel supplies under risk due to conflict in the Middle EastIt’s a shame in a crisis like this that we’ve got ourselves down to two oil refineries, so that if there’s a crisis in the production of fuel, we’re in a bad spot.We’ve got... [Continue Reading]
The week in pictures: War in the Middle East, Trump’s State of the Union address and New York snow
From the US-Israeli strikes on Iran to clashes along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, to Donald Trump’s State of the Union address and the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, FRANCE 24 looks back at the week's most striking images. [Continue Reading]
‘We thought it was fireworks’: Dubai’s luxury seekers shaken by Iranian missiles
Authorities seek to reassure visitors after tourists at five-star resorts had to shelter in underground car parksUS-Israel war on Iran – latest updatesThe weekend began as it often does in Dubai. By late morning on Saturday, the beach clubs on Palm Jumeirah were already at capacity. Along the waterfront promenade, running clubs gathered beneath the towers, filming their warm-ups before setting off in neat formation.On Instagram, the city appeared untouched: blue skies, a flat sea and the steady churn of shoppers inside the Dubai Mall. Across the Gulf, however, the largest regional war since the 2003 invasion of Iraq was... [Continue Reading]
Western Australia man arrested for allegedly plotting a mass casualty terrorist attack
A significant development has unfolded in Western Australia as Jayson Joseph Michaels has been arrested, becoming the first individual in the region to face charges related to preparing a terrorist attack. The 20-year-old former student of St Stephen's School in Carramar, Perth, is alleged to have plotted a "mass casualty" attack, raising serious concerns over domestic security measures and the threat of radicalisation. Michaels was arrested on a recent Friday, following investigations that suggested he was actively preparing for the attack. The nature of this alleged plot has not been disclosed in full, but it has prompted a heightened alert... [Continue Reading]
With few good strategic options, Iran’s best prospect may be to retaliate while it can
Regime could try to retain control of streets as US and Israel have expressed no intention of mounting ground invasionVenezula’s Nicholás Maduro was captured. But Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu have chosen a different strategy for Iran: to target and aim to kill the country’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, , and as many other senior regime figures as possible.Though Iranian military sites and its air defence systems were also targeted by coordinated US and Israeli bombing, beginning in the morning, the most significant attack was on Khamenei’s compound in Tehran. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Western Australia charges two young men with terrorism offences in less than a month, raising national security concerns
Western Australia is currently at the centre of a significant national security conversation following recent terrorism-related charges against two individuals. In a historic first for the state, authorities have charged two separate young men with terrorism offences within a span of less than a month. The developments reveal pressing concerns regarding social cohesion, with implications that resonate far beyond the state’s borders. On a recent Friday, authorities charged 20-year-old Jayson Joseph Michaels with preparing for a terrorist act, allegedly planning a "mass casualty" attack targeting significant locations, including the Parliament House, police headquarters, and local mosques. This charge follows closely... [Continue Reading]
20-year-old man charged with preparing for terrorist act in Western Australia following joint investigation by multiple agencies
A 20-year-old man from regional Western Australia has been charged with preparing for a terrorist act aimed at public buildings. This development follows an investigation led by the state’s Joint Counter Terrorism Team, which includes the Western Australia Police, the Australian Federal Police (AFP), and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO). The authorities executed a search warrant at the suspect's home located in the Wheatbelt region, uncovering evidence that purportedly pointed to his intentions. The charges against the suspect include acting in preparation for a terrorist act, using a carriage service to menace or harass, and possessing a prohibited weapon... [Continue Reading]
Cuban authorities report shootout with speedboat carrying US individuals attempting to destabilize government, four attackers killed
In a recent incident off the coast of Cuba, authorities have reported that a speedboat carrying ten individuals from the United States attempted to execute a violent operation aimed at destabilising the Cuban government. This incident culminated in a shootout with Cuban border agents, which resulted in the deaths of four of the attackers, while the remaining six are currently receiving medical treatment. The altercation took place during a naval operation conducted by the Cuban Coast Guard, which intercepted the speedboat. Official reports specify that the boat did not originally comply with orders to stop, leading to a confrontation that... [Continue Reading]
Trump Considers Military Action Against Iran Amid Rising Tensions in Middle East
Recent developments have cast a shadow over Middle Eastern geopolitics as reports indicate a renewed consideration by U.S. President Donald Trump to take military action against Iran. The mood within Israel reflects a mixture of anxiety and resignation, as leaders assess the implications of such a decision. The looming potential for conflict has raised alarms not just in Israel, but across the broader region, emphasizing a historical narrative that seems to be repeating. As of now, the circumstances surrounding this potential conflict remain fluid. Analysts suggest that the Trump administration appears to be drawing parallels from the 2003 Iraq invasion... [Continue Reading]
Russia Intensifies Military Offensive Against Ukraine with Missile and Drone Strikes, Causing Around 20 Injuries
Russia has escalated its military offensive against Ukraine, launching missile and drone strikes that resulted in approximately 20 injuries, as confirmed by local authorities. The attacks occurred overnight, targeting residential areas in eastern and southern Ukraine. This incident comes just ahead of a new round of diplomatic talks scheduled to take place in Geneva, with Ukraine and the United States initiating discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. Key figures in the negotiations include Ukraine's lead negotiator, Rustem Umerov, and representatives from the previous Trump administration, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. These talks are seen as crucial in the context... [Continue Reading]
US Allows Resale of Venezuelan Oil to Cuba to Address Fuel Shortages
The United States has recently announced a significant policy shift, allowing the resale of Venezuelan oil to Cuba in an effort to address the island’s critical fuel shortages. This change, which comes amidst rising concerns from neighboring Caribbean nations about the worsening humanitarian situation, marks a notable alteration in US foreign policy. The announcement was made by the US Department of the Treasury, indicating a favorable licensing framework for companies wishing to engage in oil commerce for humanitarian purposes. According to the Treasury’s statement, the new policy aims to facilitate humanitarian and commercial oil sales from Venezuela, specifically targeting the... [Continue Reading]
Two men charged with kidnapping and murder of 85-year-old in Sydney
In Sydney, police have charged two men with the kidnapping and murder of 85-year-old Chris Baghsarian. Daniel Stevens, 24, and Gerard Andrews, 29, were arrested on Wednesday evening and have since been denied bail. The charges against them include murder and taking or detaining in company with intent to ransom, as well as occasioning actual bodily harm. The case has drawn considerable media attention, with many discussing the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime and the implications it may have for public safety. The details surrounding the incident are still emerging, but according to police statements, the suspects did not apply... [Continue Reading]
Mexican authorities capture drug lord El Mencho, who reportedly died in custody following a firefight in Jalisco
In a significant and tumultuous development, Mexican authorities recently captured drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, commonly known as "El Mencho," who was among the country's most wanted. Following his capture, Oseguera reportedly died in custody on a Sunday after being taken amid a fierce firefight in the state of Jalisco. This incident has reignited concerns over escalating violence in areas traditionally dominated by drug cartels. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador praised the special forces for their role in Oseguera's apprehension, which he described as a victory against one of the most formidable figures in Mexico's ongoing drug war. Despite this... [Continue Reading]
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz addresses trade concerns during diplomatic visit to Beijing
On a recent diplomatic visit to Beijing, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz communicated frank concerns regarding trade practices, seeking to address ongoing tensions in the economic relationship between Germany and China. This visit was presented as a significant occasion for strengthening bilateral ties; however, Merz utilized the opportunity to voice serious grievances about issues such as market access and fairness in trade practices. Merz's remarks come at a time when Germany, as Europe's largest economy, is increasingly scrutinizing its dependencies on Chinese manufacturing. The Chancellor stressed the need for a more balanced trade environment, urging Chinese leaders to reconsider policies that... [Continue Reading]
Cold case murder trial of Irma Palasics features husband's testimony and charges against two men for related offenses
The cold case murder trial regarding Irma Palasics has revived grim memories and brought her husband Gregory into the courtroom spotlight. In shocking testimony recently presented, footage has emerged of Gregory recounting the brutal attack on his wife while he was hospitalized shortly after sustaining injuries himself. This poignant moment was shared during the trial of Melbourne men Joseph Vekony and Steve Fabriczy, who face serious charges including murder and other related offenses stemming from the burglary at the Palasics's residence in Canberra's McKellar suburb. In the footage shown to the jury, Gregory Palasics described the harrowing events that led... [Continue Reading]
Ukraine commemorates four years of conflict with Russia during church service in Kyiv
Ukraine held a church service in Kyiv to mark four years since the onset of its current conflict with Russia. During the emotionally charged event, President Volodymyr Zelensky, alongside various European leaders and ministers, paid tribute to the soldiers and civilians who have perished since the start of the war. Candles were lit in memory of the fallen as prayers resonated throughout the nation, marking a somber reflection on the enduring toll of the war, which began with Russia's invasion in February. Zelensky highlighted the resilience of Ukraine in his address, asserting that Vladimir Putin's attempts to break the spirit... [Continue Reading]
Zelensky urges EU to set timeline for Ukraine's accession during address to European Parliament
In a significant address to the European Parliament, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made an urgent plea for the European Union to establish a timeline for Ukraine's accession. This call comes as Ukraine commemorates the anniversary of Russia's extensive invasion, marked by an enthusiastic standing ovation from EU lawmakers. Zelensky described the current geopolitical climate as one where failing to set a clear accession date could enable Russian President Vladimir Putin to undermine Ukraine's aspirations and divisively influence European unity. The president's video address highlighted the importance of the moment, marking four years since the onset of Russia’s full-scale aggression.... [Continue Reading]
Zelensky marks fourth anniversary of invasion, calls for peace reflecting Ukrainian people's will
As Ukraine commemorates the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion, President Volodymyr Zelensky has reiterated that Russian President Vladimir Putin's aspirations to dominate Ukraine have proven futile. In a powerful video address, Zelensky called for a "lasting peace," emphasizing that any truce agreement must resonate with the Ukrainian people and not simply be an imposed resolution. This period of reflection coincides with growing calls from global leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, for increased support and sanctions against Russia. In his address, Zelensky highlighted the stark reality that "hundreds of thousands" of lives have been lost since the conflict erupted... [Continue Reading]
Russia marks four years since invasion of Ukraine as military operations continue despite significant resistance and losses
Recent events mark the four-year anniversary since Russia initiated a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, an operation anticipated by Moscow to conclude rapidly. As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the European Parliament, the Kremlin reiterated its ongoing commitment to its military objectives, despite facing significant resistance and mounting losses. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged that the initial goals of the invasion have not been realized and emphasized that military operations would persist. He claimed that the conflict has inadvertently unified Russian society against perceived Western aggression. On this anniversary, independent journalists have reported a staggering figure: approximately 200,000 Russian soldiers have... [Continue Reading]
Fourth Anniversary of Russia's Invasion of Ukraine Marks Significant Geopolitical and Humanitarian Impact in Europe
This week marks the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a conflict that has transformed the geopolitical landscape of Europe and led to unprecedented humanitarian and military consequences. On February 24, Russia initiated military operations that have since sparked the most intense conventional warfare in Europe since World War II. This invasion has not only resulted in catastrophic human losses but has also redefined the security dynamics in the region. According to reports, approximately 15,000 Ukrainian civilians have been confirmed dead due to the ongoing conflict. In addition to civilian casualties, the war has imposed severe tolls on... [Continue Reading]
Hungary to veto EU sanctions on Russia and financial aid for Ukraine, citing demands related to the Druzhba pipeline
The European Union faces a significant setback in its efforts to impose new sanctions on Russia as Hungary announced its intent to veto both the sanctions and a substantial financial aid package aimed at Ukraine. This move comes amid an escalated push by the EU to penalize Moscow as the bloc commemorates the fourth anniversary of the Kremlin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Hungary's refusal is framed around the reopening of the Druzhba pipeline, a critical oil supply conduit, which it demands before agreeing to any sanctions. The financial aid package for Ukraine is reportedly worth around $106 billion, aimed at... [Continue Reading]
There Is Good in Every Bad
Power, Greed, Oil, and the Theater of Modern Geopolitics The Business Model of Power Donald Trump does not govern like a traditional politician. He governs like a negotiator who believes every geopolitical crisis is leverage, every war threat is a bargaining chip, and every market panic is an opportunity. When markets tremble, someone profits. The question is, who? Global markets react instantly to political tension. Gold rises when conflict looms. Oil spikes when instability threatens production. Stock markets collapse on fear, then rebound on reassurance. Volatility is not chaos, it is opportunity. Historically, gold has surged during major geopolitical crises,... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 18 Feb 2026 17:11
