Maria Corina Machado to Return to Venezuela After Three-Month Exile Ahead of Upcoming Elections
Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has declared her intention to return to Venezuela in the coming weeks after a three-month exile. In a recent social media message, she emphasized her goal of preparing for "a new and gigantic electoral victory," highlighting the forthcoming elections that are critical in the ongoing struggle against the Nicolás Maduro administration. Machado's statement marks a significant moment in Venezuelan politics, particularly following her success in the recent primaries aimed at uniting the opposition under a single candidate. Machado, who has been living outside the country since her departure earlier in the year, did not... [Continue Reading]
Venezuela’s opposition leader Machado ‘will return to the country in the coming weeks’
Venezuelan opposition leader and winner of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize Maria Corina Machado said on Sunday that she will return to Venezuela in the coming weeks and that elections will be held in the South American country. Machado did not set a date for her return but said one of the objectives will be to prepare “for a new and gigantic electoral victory”. In a message shared on social media, the politician called on her supporters to “strengthen the unity of Venezuelans that began with the... [Continue Reading]
Supporters of ex-president Bolsonaro rally across Brazil against Lula
Thousands of supporters of Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro demonstrated in cities across the South American nation on Sunday, as organisers hoped to build momentum for a right-wing victory in the coming presidential elections. Protesters draped in yellow and green – the colours of the national flag – took to the streets in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and the capital Brasilia to voice their opposition to current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva who faces a tough re-election bid in... [Continue Reading]
Three US Soldiers Killed, Five Injured in Operation Epic Fury Amid Rising US-Iran Tensions
In a shocking escalation of military conflict in the Middle East, three United States soldiers were killed, and five others sustained serious injuries during Operation Epic Fury, the US military confirmed recently. This operation is a direct response to Iran's aggressive military actions, including drone and missile strikes aimed at US bases across the region, following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The announcement from US Central Command came as tensions between the US and Iran reached unprecedented levels. The military operation, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, was launched in response to Iran's retaliatory strikes, reflecting a significant increase in hostilities.... [Continue Reading]
Opposition parties criticise 'illegal' war in Iran
Green Party leader Roderic O'Gorman has described the US-Israeli attack on Iran as "an illegal war under international law", saying the situation has "destabilised the Middle East". [Continue Reading]
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei confirmed dead amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East
The recent decline in geopolitical stability in the Middle East has escalated following the confirmed death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during a series of military actions attributed to the United States and Israel. Reports cite that Khamenei, who has held power since the Iranian Revolution, was killed in an operation designed to neutralize perceived threats from Iran's nuclear and militant aspirations. This unprecedented event has sent shockwaves throughout Iran and prompted immediate regional and international reactions. According to multiple sources, Khamenei died in airstrikes described as coordinated efforts by US and Israeli forces aimed at dismantling key... [Continue Reading]
Despite antiwar MAGA wing, Trump gets Republican support for Iran strikes
Conservative opposition to war on Iran remains minimal as hawks heap praise on Trump for bombing, killing Khamenei. [Continue Reading]
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, confirmed killed in US and Israel air strikes, sparking celebrations across Iran
Reports have confirmed that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, has been killed in a series of air strikes conducted by the United States and Israel. The situation has led to widespread celebrations across Iran, with many citizens expressing hopes that his death may signal the end of a repressive regime. Protesters, particularly in cities like Amol, have voiced their exhilaration over the news, rallying to commemorate this moment as a potential turning point for their country's future. The air strikes, part of a coordinated military operation dubbed Operation Epic Fury by the United States and Operation Roaring Lion by... [Continue Reading]
How have US politicians reacted to the attack on Iran?
Republicans largely rally behind Trump's strikes on Iran, while Democrats fail to offer singular message of opposition. [Continue Reading]
Protesters rally across US after Iran strikes and reports of Khamenei killing
Crowds gather in DC, New York and beyond to denounce Trump’s Iran strikes as an illegal act of warAs news reports circulated that Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, had been killed in US and Israeli airstrikes on Tehran, anti-war protesters gathered across the United States, including outside the White House and in New York’s Times Square to voice opposition to US military involvement in the region.“It wasn’t sanctioned by Congress, so what Trump is doing is on his own terms, it’s making him a fascist and it’s making the country into a fascist state,” said Sue Johnson, a protester. Continue... [Continue Reading]
US and Israel Launch Coordinated Strikes Against Iranian Targets Amid Rising Middle East Tensions
In a dramatic escalation of military operations, the United States and Israel have launched a coordinated series of strikes against Iranian targets amid rising tensions in the Middle East. Confirmed reports indicate that both nations initiated a joint operation dubbed as necessary to counter what Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described as an “existential threat” posed by Iran. This operation is part of a broader strategy aiming at regime change in Iran, as emphasized by US President Donald Trump, who stated that major combat operations had commenced. Since the initiation of these strikes, a significant number of flights have been... [Continue Reading]
Taiwan to acquire advanced military systems from the US amid rising tensions with Beijing
Taiwan’s recent decision to purchase an arsenal of advanced military systems from the United States has sparked significant debate among local analysts and lawmakers. Central to this discussion are three US-approved systems: the Patriot PAC-3 missile defence system, the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (Nasams), and the M109A7 Paladin self-propelled howitzer. Critics argue that these purchases may not address the actual threats faced by Taiwan as tensions with Beijing continue to escalate. Reports indicate that Taiwan's Defence Ministry has confirmed the arrival of the first batch of PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) missiles, with a second delivery expected later in... [Continue Reading]
Taiwan is buying expensive US weapons systems, but are they the right ones?
Taiwan’s procurement of three US arms packages has come under renewed scrutiny, with military experts now questioning their effectiveness in deterring Beijing. The debate has sharpened after opposition parties repeatedly blocked a proposed NT$1.25 trillion (US$40 billion) special defence budget in the legislature’s procedure committee last month. At the centre of the latest criticism are three US-approved systems for Taiwan: the Patriot PAC-3 missile defence system and its upgrades, the National... [Continue Reading]
Argentine Senate passes labour reforms backed by President Milei amid public protests and concerns from labour unions
The Argentine Senate has enacted sweeping labour reforms supported by President Javier Milei, a move that has sparked significant public outcry and continued protests. The legislation was passed with a vote tally of 42 in favor, 28 against, and two abstentions, marking a pivotal moment for Milei in his efforts to implement a more business-friendly environment. These reforms are intended to relax hiring regulations, extend working hours, and impose limitations on the right to strike, raising concerns among labour unions and worker advocacy groups about potential violations of worker protections. Critics of the reforms argue they represent a significant rollback... [Continue Reading]
Israel conducts preemptive strike against Iran amid escalating regional tensions, confirms Defense Minister Israel Katz
In a significant escalation of tensions in the region, Israel has launched a preemptive strike against Iran, as confirmed by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz. The attack, described as necessary to "remove threats to the State of Israel," marks a critical moment in the ongoing conflict, with explosions reported in Tehran. Eyewitness accounts have detailed blasts that shook the Iranian capital, underlining the gravity of the situation. The Israeli administration declared that the operation was a defensive measure amid fears of an imminent retaliatory strike from Iran. Sirens sounded across Israel, warning citizens of potential missile threats from Iranian forces... [Continue Reading]
Labour anxiety and accusations after big shift in Muslim vote to Greens
PM criticises ‘sectarian politics’ in byelection but party may fear Greens’ nascent leftwing political machineThe Green party’s success at winning Muslim votes in Gorton and Denton has sent tremors through Westminster, prompting recriminations and accusations from opposition parties, who sense another major realignment in British politics.Experts say Hannah Spencer’s unexpectedly wide margin of victory was delivered in part by a significant shift of Muslim voters from Labour to the Greens. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
SA Liberal and Labor to preference David Speirs last at state election
Both major parties in South Australia say they will preference former opposition leader David Speirs last at the state election, as he rules out returning to the Liberal Party. [Continue Reading]
Trump expresses dissatisfaction with Iran amid nuclear concerns, emphasizes preference for diplomacy but acknowledges military options
In a critical moment of geopolitical tension, President Donald Trump has publicly expressed his dissatisfaction with Iran amid rising concerns regarding the country's nuclear program. While speaking to reporters, Trump indicated his preference for a diplomatic resolution but also noted the potential necessity of military action, stating, "sometimes you have to" use force. This statement underscores the delicate balancing act the U.S. government is attempting to maintain between diplomacy and military readiness in the Middle East. The backdrop of Trump’s comments is marked by a significant increase in American military deployments to the Middle East. Officials have ramped up their... [Continue Reading]
Green Party wins Gorton and Denton parliamentary by-election, marking its first victory in party history
The UK's Green Party has marked a significant milestone by winning the Gorton and Denton parliamentary by-election, becoming the first party in its history to achieve this feat. The victory, led by candidate Hannah Spencer, not only highlights the shifting political landscape but also poses critical challenges for Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Labour Party, which suffered a disappointing third-place finish in a constituency it previously dominated. In the by-election results, Spencer garnered a total of 14,980 votes, establishing a commanding majority of 4,402 votes over her nearest competitor, Matt Goodwin of Reform UK, who received 10,578 votes. Labour’s... [Continue Reading]
Thousands protest in Manila on 40th anniversary of uprising, demanding transparency and accountability over corruption allegations
In a significant show of defiance and demand for transparency, thousands of protesters converged in Manila to commemorate the 40th anniversary of a pivotal uprising that marked a turning point in Filipino history. The demonstrators gathered to voice their discontent over alleged corruption involving officials connected to flood control projects, leading to clashes with police forces. The protests reflect a broader sentiment within the community against corruption and mismanagement, which have long plagued the political landscape in the Philippines. Reports indicate that the protests were organized by various civil society groups and political organizations, who harnessed this anniversary not only... [Continue Reading]
Beijing prepares to respond as US implements new tariffs following Supreme Court ruling overturning previous levies
In a rapidly evolving trade landscape, Beijing is poised to react as the United States implements new tariffs following a Supreme Court ruling that overturned previous levies. This significant legal decision has led the Trump administration to impose a new 10 per cent tariff on all goods entering the US, which commenced recently. The situation is further complicated by the announcement of a potential increase to 15 per cent, the maximum allowable under Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act, as indicated by the President on social media. The Supreme Court's ruling dismantled earlier tariffs established by the Trump administration,... [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]
Lesbian Action Group Challenges Human Rights Commission Ruling on Exclusion of Transgender Women from Events
In a pivotal legal dispute unfolding in the Federal Court of Australia, the Lesbian Action Group (LAG) is contesting a ruling by the Human Rights Commission (HRC) that prevents the group from excluding transgender women from its events. This case has drawn significant attention, highlighting contentious issues surrounding gender identity and the rights of marginalized communities, particularly in LGBTQ+ spaces. This week, the HRC articulated that allowing the LAG to enforce such a ban would infringe upon the dignity of transgender women, potentially leading them to feel "inferior" and discriminated against. As articulated in court, the implications of this ruling... [Continue Reading]
Trump Implements 10% Global Tariff Following Supreme Court Ruling on Import Taxes
In a significant development for international trade, US President Donald Trump has instituted a new global tariff of 10% following a ruling by the Supreme Court that blocked many of his previous import taxes. This new levy, which came into effect recently, underscores the administration's ongoing attempts to reshape trade policy amid legal and political challenges. The tariff is set to last for 150 days, created under the authority of Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act, which enables the imposition of such charges without the need for congressional approval. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer confirmed the implementation of the... [Continue Reading]
Over 200 Venezuelan political prisoners begin hunger strike demanding release under new amnesty law
In a significant act of defiance, over 200 political prisoners in Venezuela have initiated a hunger strike, demanding their release under a controversial new amnesty law. The protest began on Sunday at the Rodeo I prison, located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) east of the capital, Caracas. The inmates have reportedly shouted messages to their families, expressing their grievances over the amnesty law, which excludes many political detainees, thereby fueling their frustration and desperation for justice. The hunger strike is an unprecedented challenge to the Venezuelan government amidst the ongoing political crisis marked by widespread allegations of human rights abuses... [Continue Reading]
Hong Kong commentator Wong Kwok-ngon faces up to seven years in prison for alleged seditious material as case moves to District Court
A Hong Kong news commentator, Wong Kwok-ngon, known by his pen name Wong On-yin, may face up to seven years in prison if convicted of publishing seditious material online. This follows a significant judicial decision in which the Chief Magistrate Victor So Wai-tak granted prosecutors' request to transfer Wong’s case to the higher District Court. The higher court carries more severe potential sentences, allowing for penalties up to seven years for sedition, compared to a two-year cap in magistrates' courts. Wong, aged 71, is accused of posting several hundred videos classified as seditious on his YouTube channel between January 3... [Continue Reading]
South Korea protests banner at Russian embassy referencing Ukraine war anniversary
South Korea has officially protested the recent display of a large banner at the Russian embassy in Seoul, declaring “Victory will be ours.” The banner, displayed prominently in the heart of the capital, is interpreted as a reference to the approaching anniversary of the Ukraine war, which marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. This display has heightened tensions between South Korea and Russia, especially as Seoul has been vocally critical of Moscow's military actions in Ukraine. The banner was first observed over the weekend and remained displayed on Monday morning as the country braced... [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
