China’s key NPC meeting comes to a close as lower growth target set
The National People's Congress signals firm stance against corruption as China's 15th five-year plan is approved. [Continue Reading]
There is only one person’ who can decide to end the war on Iran
Israeli journalist and writer, Gideon Levy, says the decision to end the Iran war rests only with US President Trump. [Continue Reading]
Why historic oil reserves release may do little to bring down rising prices
Oil prices continue to soar despite the International Energy Agency's plans to release 400m barrels into the market. [Continue Reading]
Flood victims forced to line up for hours for disaster relief payments
Katherine region residents displaced from their homes by the recent flood emergency have been forced to wait in line for hours to access disaster relief payments. [Continue Reading]
Oil prices soar past $100 a barrel amid Iranian attacks on commerical ships
The latest attacks marked an escalation in Iran’s campaign aimed at generating enough global economic pain to pressure the United States and Israel to end the war that started 12 days ago. But there were no signs that the conflict was subsiding. [Continue Reading]
Middle East crisis live: Iran steps up attacks on ports, tankers and oil terminals in campaign to disrupt energy markets
This blog has now closed – our live coverage of the Middle East crisis continues hereFollow live for latest news and updates in the Middle East crisisAn Iranian source is denying the country will allow India-flagged tankers to pass through the vital strait of Hormuz, Reuters is reporting.The news agency a little earlier quoted an Indian source as saying Iran would in fact allow such tankers to pass through the strait, a key artery for global oil trade. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Liza Tarbuck leaves Radio 2 Saturday show after 14 years
Shaun Keaveny, host of The Rock Show, will stand in for her until the end of the end of the month. [Continue Reading]
Police accused of 'overreach' after 'from the river to the sea' arrests
The pro-Palestinian group that organised the Brisbane protest says police were "everywhere" and "ready to make arrests" over use of the banned phrase. [Continue Reading]
Demand for bomb shelters surges in Gulf nations amid escalating Middle East conflict
As the conflict across the Middle East escalates, demand for bomb shelters has surged significantly. Ron Hubbard, the owner of Atlas Survival Shelters based in Texas, reported that inquiries from clients, particularly in Gulf nations, have skyrocketed since hostilities intensified roughly two weeks ago. The increased interest is attributed to fears of air raids and potential nuclear fallout, driven by ongoing attacks involving the United States and Israel against Iran. According to Hubbard, the response from both foreign and domestic clients has been unprecedented. "You can imagine how many people are thinking ‘I wish I had a bomb shelter',” he... [Continue Reading]
Wests Tigers desperate to keep Jonah Lomu-like teen star
Heamasi Makasini has shown off his talent in both rugby codes, but Wests Tigers are hopeful they will keep the 18-year-old at the club once his contract expires. [Continue Reading]
Noma head chef resigns from restaurant amid abuse allegations
René Redzepi had previously apologised after ex-employees of the Danish restaurant accused him of creating a toxic work environment. [Continue Reading]
Record floods in Brazil's Minas Gerais lead to evacuations and landslides, highlighting climate change risks
The recent record floods in Brazil, particularly in the coffee-producing state of Minas Gerais, have led to widespread devastation, with dozens of residents reported buried in landslides and thousands forced to evacuate their homes. This disaster highlights the urgent need to address the rising risks posed by climate change, as scientists warn that continued reliance on fossil fuels will only exacerbate extreme weather events. In the city of Juiz de Fora, one of the hardest-hit areas, March witnessed an alarming rainfall total of over 750mm, marking the wettest February on record. This is three times the amount typically expected for... [Continue Reading]
Fuel quality rules relaxed to add 100 million litres more petrol
Australia will bring in 100 million more litres of petrol by allowing a higher level of sulfur content in its fuel for the next 60 days, Energy Minister Chris Bowen says, as the country reckons with petrol flows choked by the Middle East war. [Continue Reading]
Oil price pushes past $US100 a barrel as analysts warn of prolonged war
The oil price has surged again amid Iranian strikes on oil tankers and the fear there could be more attacks to come. [Continue Reading]
Israeli airstrike in Beirut kills at least seven amid escalating violence with Hezbollah
In a significant escalation of violence in the Middle East, a recent Israeli airstrike on central Beirut's seafront has resulted in the deaths of at least seven individuals, according to statements from Lebanon's health ministry. This incident marks the latest in a series of aggressive actions amid ongoing hostilities involving Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israeli forces. The strike occurred early on Thursday, as Hezbollah launched additional missiles towards Israel, further intensifying the regional conflict. Lebanese officials reported the attack took place in a densely populated area of Beirut, which has increasingly become a focal point in the escalating military confrontations. Explosions... [Continue Reading]
Bodies of two Chinese backpackers found in Australian floodwaters
The pair had been reported missing on Tuesday after failing to reach their destination. [Continue Reading]
A Third of Americans Have Cut Spending or Borrowed Money for Health Care
As medical costs rise, more than 80 million people have made sacrifices like skipping meals and driving less, a new survey finds. [Continue Reading]
How to Afford Housing in London: Multiple Roommates, No Living Room
High prices have pushed more Londoners to live with roommates well into their late 20s and 30s , if they can afford to move out of their parents’ homes at all. [Continue Reading]
Breaking: SA Liberal candidate no longer running for party after podcast comments
SA Liberal Leader Ashton Hurn says one of her candidates for the upcoming state election is no longer running for the party after comments he made on Islam, feminism, same-sex marriage and "the trans agenda" came to light from an American podcast. [Continue Reading]
Why war on Iran is not Trump’s to end: will Israel ‘fan the flames’?
The US-Israeli war on Iran could prove difficult to end in the short term, with Israel expected to continue to “fan the flames”, Chinese experts have warned. However, they still believe that the intense back-and-forth attacks and high tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are unlikely to last. They also reject the notion that a prolonged Middle East conflict involving the United States would benefit Beijing. It has been 12 days since the US and Israel launched joint air strikes on Iran on February... [Continue Reading]
Why Indonesia’s waste-to-energy goal may not be ‘quick fix’ for landfill crisis
Indonesia’s appointment of two Chinese companies to run waste-to-energy (WtE) projects in two cities – part of President Prabowo Subianto’s push to reduce mounting rubbish in landfills while generating power – has sparked a debate over costs, efficiency and whether the initiative will deliver on its waste-reduction goals. Danantara, the Indonesian state wealth fund, on Friday announced that it had chosen Wangneng Environment as the operator of a WtE plant in the city of Bekasi, while Zhejiang... [Continue Reading]
‘Outdated intelligence’: US faces mounting evidence in deadly strike on Iran school
Outdated intelligence likely led to the United States carrying out a deadly missile strike on a junior school in Iran that killed over 165 people, many of them children, in the opening hours of the conflict, according to a US official and a second person briefed on findings of a preliminary US military investigation into the incident. The bombing of the school and its casualties involving children has become a focal point of the war, and if ultimately confirmed to be at the hands of the US,... [Continue Reading]
Malaysian man jailed for 10 months, fined US$12,700 over Facebook post insulting Islam
The administrator of a Facebook account has been jailed 10 months and fined 50,000 ringgit (US$12,700) by the Sessions Court in Miri, Sarawak, over a post deemed insulting to Islam. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said John Mule anak Alai, 48, was convicted under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for improper use of network facilities. “MCMC takes seriously any form of misuse of digital platforms that insults religion, incites hatred,... [Continue Reading]
Five vessels attacked amid reports of Iranian drone boats, sea mines
Iraq reportedly suspends oil terminal operations after two tankers hit by explosive-laden boats in Iraqi waters. [Continue Reading]
How is feminism being used to justify war in Iran?
Some supporters of the US-Israeli war on Iran are using the treatment of women in the country as a justification. [Continue Reading]
Asia scrambles to confront energy crisis unleashed by Iran war – with no end in sight
From fuel caps to four-day work weeks, the Middle East conflict has left the world’s top crude oil importing region desperate to shore up suppliesDonald Trump has scrambled in recent days to reassure the world that the economic impact of his war on Iran can be contained.Sure, one of the most important waterways in global trade has, in effect, been shut for almost two weeks – but it might reopen before long. In the meantime, US oil-related sanctions on “some countries” will be lifted. And besides, the entire conflict could be over soon. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Fears Easter travellers will hit the brakes as fuel prices climb
Many Australian families are adjusting their Easter travel plans as eye-watering fuel prices continue to rise. [Continue Reading]
Fire erupts at Gaza camp after Israeli attack hits tents
Fire broke out at tents sheltering displaced Palestinians in Gaza’s Al-Ansar refugee camp after an Israeli strike. [Continue Reading]
Darwin's boil water alert lifted after testing shows water is free of E.coli
The boil water alert for Darwin has been lifted after testing confirmed the region's water was free of E.coli and other harmful bacteria. [Continue Reading]
Preparing for the worst? US bunker maker claims big demand in Middle East
Since the war in the Middle East began nearly two weeks ago, the phone at Ron Hubbard’s bomb shelter company in Texas has not stopped ringing. Foreign and US clients are rushing to buy his bunkers, seeking refuge in case of air raids, nuclear fallout or apocalypse. With the United States and Israel pounding Iran, and Tehran retaliating with strikes across the region, Hubbard has seen demand for his product soar, mostly from Gulf nation clients in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab... [Continue Reading]
Missile strike on Iranian school kills over 170, escalating US-Israel-Iran conflict
The ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has escalated significantly, with a devastating attack on Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School in southern Iran marking one of the bloodiest incidents thus far. This missile strike, which occurred on February 28 during the initial phase of military actions, resulted in the deaths of over 170 individuals, predominantly schoolgirls. This incident has drawn widespread condemnation and has become emblematic of the civilian toll in the ongoing war. Initial reports indicate that the missile strike targeted the school during operational hours, catching many by surprise. Eyewitness accounts and local reports confirmed that... [Continue Reading]
Washington State enacts first income tax targeting households earning over $250,000 annually
In a historic move, Washington State has enacted its first income tax, labeled the ‘Millionaires’ Tax’. This measure is poised to impact approximately 20,000 households across the state and has sparked significant discussion regarding its implications for wealth distribution and migration trends among high-income residents. This tax is primarily aimed at individuals earning over $250,000 annually, raising questions about productivity and the future of tax policy reforms in the region. The passage of this legislation signifies a shift in Washington's tax landscape, which has been primarily dependent on sales and fuel taxes rather than income-based taxation. As such, the government... [Continue Reading]
Sophie Ellis-Bextor is embracing middle age on the dance floor
Megahits like Murder on the Dancefloor and Groovejet made her a household name but Sophie Ellis-Bextor is so much more. [Continue Reading]
Up to 3.2m people in Iran displaced by war - UN
The United Nations' refugee agency has said that up to 3.2 million people in Iran have been displaced since the war began almost a fortnight ago. [Continue Reading]
Tankers burn near Iraq, Iran strikes defy Trump's claims
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said the joint US-Israeli campaign is "crushing" Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah and called for Iranians to rise up and overthrow the Islamic Republic. [Continue Reading]
Emergency services conduct helicopter rescues in Katherine amid severe flooding and crocodile threats
In a dramatic response to a severe flooding event, emergency services undertook a helicopter rescue operation in Katherine, where individuals were trapped in waters populated by crocodiles. The rescue operation occurred on Wednesday, as flood levels in Katherine saw a minor reduction, currently reported at 16.3 meters and falling. However, the situation is exacerbated to the south, where the Daly River/Nauiyu area is grappling with the second-worst flood on record. The incident highlights the escalating dangers posed by the ongoing floods, prompting emergency services to issue warnings against driving through flooded areas. The current rescue success underscores the urgency of... [Continue Reading]
Trump’s Tour of States Is About More Than the Midterms
Beyond talking about the economy and voters’ hardships, the president is showing that he still has control over the Republican Party. [Continue Reading]
UK Met Office issues yellow warnings for strong winds across northern regions ahead of cold front
The UK is bracing for significant weather changes as the Met Office has issued yellow warnings for strong winds affecting northern regions, including Scotland, Northern Ireland, northern England, North Wales, and the north Midlands. These warnings coincide with a cold front that is set to move southwards throughout the day. The strongest winds are expected to commence ahead of this incoming cold front, potentially leading to transport disruptions. According to the Met Office, the warnings began on Thursday, with locals advised to remain vigilant as gusts could pose hazards. The weather system is anticipated to bring heavy rain followed by... [Continue Reading]
Republican candidate Blake Miguez faces scrutiny over 2007 rape allegation amid concerns about vetting process for endorsements
Blake Miguez, a Republican congressional candidate from Louisiana endorsed by former President Donald Trump, is facing scrutiny following revelations of a rape allegation dating back to 2007. This allegation was reported to local law enforcement on the same day as the incident but remained largely undisclosed until now. As Miguez rises in the Louisiana Republican Party, these past accusations are fueling concerns within the White House regarding the vetting process that led to his endorsement. The allegations against Miguez were made by a woman who referred to him as a "live-in ex-boyfriend" at the time of the alleged assault. Although... [Continue Reading]
Israel Imposes Closure on Al-Aqsa Mosque, Prompting Condemnation from Eight Nations During Ramadan
Over the past two weeks, Israel has imposed a closure on the Al-Aqsa Mosque, severely restricting access to one of Islam's holiest sites during the significant month of Ramadan. This action has drawn sharp condemnation from eight nations, including Qatar, Jordan, Indonesia, Turkiye, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. The collective statement from these nations highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the control and status of religious sites in Jerusalem. The frequent closures of Al-Aqsa Mosque, particularly during periods of heightened religious observance, have long been a source of contention. For twelve consecutive days, the mosque and its... [Continue Reading]
Kanye West ordered to pay $140K in Malibu mansion renovation lawsuit
A handyman had sought $1.7m (£1.267m) from the rapper over claims of unpaid work, medical expenses and being unfairly fired. [Continue Reading]
International firms evacuate staff and close offices in Gulf amid rising Iran-related threats to US and Israel-linked businesses
In response to escalating threats from Iran targeting US- and Israel-linked economic establishments in the Gulf, several major international banking, finance, and consultancy firms have initiated evacuations of their staff and closures of offices across the region. This move highlights the geopolitical tensions brewing in the Middle East and their impact on global business operations. Reports indicate that groups such as Citi, a prominent American financial institution, and Deloitte, a leading British consultancy, closed their offices in Dubai's financial centre. This follows Iran's warning against threats to its sovereignty and security interests, particularly those associated with US and Israeli interests... [Continue Reading]
King penguins on Crozet Islands are breeding earlier and achieving higher success rates due to changing environmental conditions
Recent reports indicate that King penguins on the Crozet Islands are now breeding earlier and achieving higher success rates compared to two decades ago. This phenomenon, noted by researchers studying these unique birds, appears to be a direct response to changing environmental conditions and food availability in their habitat. Over the last 24 years, observations of the breeding patterns of King penguins have illustrated a notable shift. In earlier breeding seasons, the challenges faced by these animals were more pronounced. However, today's data suggests that not only are these penguins breeding earlier, but they are also experiencing better reproductive success.... [Continue Reading]
US to release 172 million barrels of oil from strategic reserve to address rising prices amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East
The United States has announced that it will release 172 million barrels of oil from its strategic petroleum reserve. This decision, according to US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, is part of a larger strategy to combat soaring oil prices exacerbated by the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Wright indicated that this release is part of a coordinated move involving the 32-member International Energy Agency, which has agreed to release a total of 400 million barrels. The oil release is expected to begin next week and will take an estimated 120 days to complete. Wright stated that... [Continue Reading]
UN Security Council passes resolution demanding Iran stop attacks on Gulf nations
In a significant development, the UN Security Council has passed a resolution demanding that Iran cease its attacks on Gulf nations. The resolution, which garnered 13 votes in favor and saw two abstentions, specifically calls for an immediate halt to all assaults by the Islamic Republic on Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan. This directive comes amid escalating tensions in the region, particularly as Iran has been retaliating against perceived threats from US and Israeli military actions. The resolution has been framed as a response to Iran's increasing aggressiveness, which includes using military tactics... [Continue Reading]
