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]
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]
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]
Beyond talking about the economy and voters’ hardships, the president is showing that he still has control over the Republican Party. [Continue Reading]
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]
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]
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]
A handyman had sought $1.7m (£1.267m) from the rapper over claims of unpaid work, medical expenses and being unfairly fired. [Continue Reading]
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]
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]
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]
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]
Militaries are often cagey about their cyber activities. But the US has hinted at the role it has played. [Continue Reading]
From tomorrow, people will be able to claim tax relief of 20% on health expenses for some healthcare provided by pharmacists. [Continue Reading]
A Status Yellow snow and ice warning is in effect for 11 counties while a Status Yellow wind warning has also been issued for three counties in the west and southwest overnight. [Continue Reading]
Funding of €5 million has been announced for new partnership projects between cultural organisations in Ireland and the UK. [Continue Reading]
Julian Alcala, a former police officer from Missouri, has been sentenced to two years in prison following a case involving the unlawful seizure of nude images from victims' smartphones during traffic stops. This sentencing marks a crucial step in addressing misconduct within law enforcement that exploits individuals in vulnerable situations. The case against Alcala has garnered significant attention, as authorities have identified at least 20 victims whose privacy was violated by his actions. Following the sentence, Alcala is expected to face civil lawsuits from these victims in addition to the criminal charges that led to his incarceration. This ongoing scandal... [Continue Reading]
The U.S.-based companies, Planet Labs and Vantor, say they were not instructed by any government to restrict image access. [Continue Reading]
In a significant diplomatic shift, the Spanish government has formally dismissed its ambassador to Israel, Ana Sálomon. This decision was publicly announced through the official state journal following approval at the latest Council of Ministers meeting. Spain's diplomatic representation in Tel Aviv will now be led by a chargé d'affaires, a position that ranks below that of ambassador. This move is seen as a reciprocal act, responding to Israel's prior decision to withdraw its ambassador from Madrid in reaction to Spain's policy changes. The dismissal follows escalating tensions between Spain and Israel, particularly after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's comments... [Continue Reading]
The government of Ecuador, under the leadership of President Daniel Noboa, is poised to launch a significant military operation against criminal organizations within its borders, scheduled to commence over the weekend. This offensive has garnered support from the United States, signaling a strategic shift in Ecuador's approach to combating escalating crime rates linked to drug trafficking and organized crime. In a recent interview on Ecuador's Radio Centro, Interior Minister John Reimberg highlighted this upcoming military campaign as a departure from previous tactics aimed primarily at dismantling the leadership of criminal groups. He noted, "Last year, we dedicated ourselves to catching... [Continue Reading]
A tragic drone strike in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has resulted in the death of a French aid worker, alongside several civilians. This incident underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region, where local populations face recurrent violence. The strike occurred amidst escalating tensions in a region often marked by conflict and instability. The impact of this attack is severe, not only for the families directly affected but also for humanitarian operations in the DRC. The aid worker’s name has not been released yet, but their death marks a significant loss in ongoing humanitarian efforts in... [Continue Reading]
New reports reveal that the United States military was responsible for a deadly missile strike on a primary school in Iran, which occurred during operations against a nearby military base. The New York Times has cited a preliminary inquiry by US officials indicating that a Tomahawk missile, intended for the adjacent base, mistakenly targeted the school, resulting in immense casualties. The unfortunate incident took place on February 28, when at least 165 individuals, predominantly children, were reported killed following the missile strike on the Iranian girls' school. This attack has drawn widespread condemnation and fury from Iranian officials and citizens... [Continue Reading]
Leo Brent Bozell apologises after weighing in on a dispute rooted in the country's apartheid past. [Continue Reading]
Norwegian authorities announced the arrest of three brothers, all in their 20s and of Iraqi heritage, following a bombing incident outside the US Embassy in Oslo. The explosion occurred over the weekend, resulting in minor damage but fortunately no casualties. The arrests were made on Wednesday afternoon, with police continuing to investigate the incident as a potential act of terrorism. The bombing, described as a "terrorist bombing" by police, has raised significant concerns among security officials regarding possible links to foreign state involvement and terrorist groups. Police prosecutor Christian Hatlo stated during a press conference that the bomb was a... [Continue Reading]
Residents in Chinchilla, Queensland, are facing an urgent crisis as authorities have issued a warning of imminent flooding. The situation escalated rapidly as local waterways are projected to peak, particularly Charleys Creek, which is expected to experience significant overflow due to recent heavy rains. The region bracing for these conditions includes central Queensland, where residents have expressed mounting concern for their homes and local businesses. As reported, the peak water level at the Burnett River in Bundaberg reached 7.4 meters, prompting warnings for Chinchilla. Notably, local pub owner Peter Sullivan has been monitoring these developments closely, predicting that the river... [Continue Reading]
In a developing story from the Milano Cortina Games, German silver medallists Linn Kazmaier and Florian Baumann have come under investigation by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) following their protest during a medal ceremony. The athletes did not remove their caps or turn to face the flags during the Russian national anthem, which has evoked strong reactions amid ongoing tensions surrounding Russia's participation in international sporting events. The incident has raised concerns amid the backdrop of the IPC's decision to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their national flags, a move that has been controversial due to the... [Continue Reading]
Recent tensions in the Middle East have escalated, particularly as Iranian military actions continue to draw international concern. A drone strike was reportedly launched on Dubai's international airport, further heightening the sense of insecurity in the region. This incident is viewed as part of a broader pattern in Iran's strategy amid ongoing conflict with the United States and its allies. The situation appears increasingly intricate as the United States uses its military capabilities to assert dominance, while Iran, despite not matching American military might, engages in strategic maneuvers to exert pressure on economic vulnerabilities globally. A key component of Iran's... [Continue Reading]
Fact to File connections could have taken a shot at the Gold Cup but instead have opted for Thursday's Ryanair chase, such is the reality of a four-day festival. [Continue Reading]
The former Fox host projects an image of unapologetic frontman for the world's most powerful military. [Continue Reading]
In a notable escalation of regional hostilities, Iran has significantly increased its military operations against civilian infrastructure and transport networks throughout the Gulf. On Wednesday, Iranian forces targeted commercial shipping vessels in the vital Strait of Hormuz and made an aggressive move toward Dubai’s international airport. This escalation coincided with recent airstrikes from US and Israeli warplanes aimed at Iranian installations, marking a dangerous turning point in an ongoing conflict, which has now persisted for over a week. According to reports, Iranian strikes have included attacks on at least three cargo ships, described as having been impacted by "unknown projectiles."... [Continue Reading]
Norway's police attorney says the authorities are investigating whether a foreign state actor was involved. [Continue Reading]
The Higher Education trade union, the Irish Federation of University Teachers (IFUT), has announced that up to 150 research positions are at risk due to the closure of several research centres, including Trinity College's CRANN and AMBER centres. This upheaval follows the non-renewal of core funding, which has raised significant concerns about the stability of research employment in Ireland. Robert McNamara, Assistant General Secretary of IFUT, expressed the union's alarm, stating that while some staff categories have started a consultation process regarding their employment status, research staff still await a structured parallel engagement. The uncertainty surrounding their job futures has... [Continue Reading]
Recent military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran have prompted significant tactical successes, as characterized by military analysts. However, these tactical achievements do not necessarily equate to long-term strategic victory for the US, which has been shifting its objectives daily. As confirmed by Daniel Schneiderman, Director of Global Policy Programs at Penn Washington, the US transition in goals, from neutralizing Iran’s military and nuclear capabilities to aiming for regime change, indicates a complex, evolving conflict lacking a clear resolution. The situation escalated amidst an ongoing conflict that has seen various military operations targeting Iran. The United States... [Continue Reading]
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz has taken a critical turn as three ships were reported attacked on March 11 amidst Iran's escalating maritime campaign, with the overall number of struck vessels rising to fourteen since the beginning of the conflict. A British maritime monitoring agency confirmed the attacks occurred in separate incidents following reports that Iran has begun laying mines in this vital passageway, further aggravating global shipping concerns. The recent incidents have resulted in a staggering 97% decrease in maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. This region is crucial for global oil shipments, with approximately one-fifth... [Continue Reading]
In a significant legal outcome, the High Court in London has ruled that Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, a member of the Irish language rap group Kneecap, will not face a new terror trial. This decision follows an appeal by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which sought to reinstate a charge against Ó hAnnaidh related to displaying a flag supporting Hezbollah during a performance at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town, London. The original case against him was dismissed in September of the previous year due to procedural issues. During a gig on 21 November, Ó hAnnaidh was accused of promoting... [Continue Reading]
Argentina's decision to grant asylum to a Brazilian fugitive, Joel Borges Correa, convicted for his role in the January 8 riots, marks a significant development in South American politics. The riots, which involved an assault on major government buildings, including Brazil's Congress and Presidential Palace, highlighted the intense political polarization following Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's electoral victory over former President Jair Bolsonaro. This asylum ruling, announced recently, is poised to influence Brazil's upcoming political landscape as debates on governance and national security intensify. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) report revealed that while two senior public servants engaged in corrupt... [Continue Reading]
The European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom have issued urgent demands for Israel to curb escalating violence by Jewish settlers against Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. This surge in violence has been reported since the onset of Israel’s military conflict with Iran. According to the United Nations, there have been six confirmed Palestinian fatalities resulting from attacks perpetrated by settlers across various locations in the West Bank over the past 11 days. The United Kingdom expressed its deep concern over these incidents, describing the killings as appalling. The EU reiterated that the scale of settler violence is intolerable... [Continue Reading]
Iran has announced that its new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, sustained injuries during recent airstrikes attributed to US-Israeli collaboration. These strikes not only wounded Mojtaba but also resulted in the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the previous supreme leader. This evolving situation has raised significant concerns regarding stability and leadership within Iran's political landscape. The incidents reportedly occurred as a series of targeted strikes executed by US-Israeli forces aimed at key Iranian military installations. Mojtaba, who was appointed as the supreme leader shortly after his father's death, has not made any public appearances since the attacks, which has... [Continue Reading]
A teenage boy has been charged in connection with the serious assault of a man outside the 3 Arena in Dublin. The incident took place on 30 January, where the victim, a man in his early 20s from County Laois, sustained serious injuries. This development marks a significant step in the investigation surrounding the event, which has drawn public attention to youth violence and safety in urban areas. The accused, a 17-year-old juvenile, was brought before Judge Paul Kelly at the Dublin Children's Court. He faces charges of assault causing harm to the victim as well as violent disorder. The... [Continue Reading]
The United Kingdom has officially prohibited this year's Al-Quds Day march, a longstanding event that has taken place for 40 years in London. The decision was confirmed following a request from the Metropolitan Police, who expressed concerns over public disorder risks, particularly linked to the "volatile situation in the Middle East." The Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, endorsed the ban, marking the first time a protest march has been outlawed since 2012 when the authorities halted demonstrations by the far-right English Defence League. The ban comes amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly related to recent conflicts, which have seen... [Continue Reading]
Recent military actions have escalated tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping lane for global oil supplies. The US military confirmed that it has targeted and destroyed 16 Iranian mine-laying vessels near this vital waterway, following reports of Iran laying several mines in the region. This area, only 21 miles wide at its most narrow point, is a critical passageway for approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply, making the recent developments particularly concerning for global markets. The US military's actions were prompted by rising intelligence reports indicating that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had begun laying... [Continue Reading]
The second Government charter flight from Abu Dhabi, aimed at repatriating Irish citizens stranded in the Gulf region, has arrived in Dublin today. The flight, part of an ongoing effort to assist citizens amidst current challenges, was part of a coordinated initiative supported by the Irish embassy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). On board the flight were 217 passengers, which included 27 citizens from other European Union member states, all accommodated under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. This program assists various EU citizens, facilitating their return from overseas during exceptional circumstances. The focus of the operation has been particularly... [Continue Reading]
Iran's security chief has issued a stern warning to citizens regarding any plans to protest against the government, characterizing such individuals as "enemies" amidst a backdrop of escalating military actions by the United States and Israel. This warning comes in the wake of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's provocative statement encouraging the Iranian populace to "seize the moment" and express dissent against their government. In a significant context, the United States has reportedly spent $3.7 billion in the initial four days of military operations targeting Iran. This expenditure reflects the high financial stakes involved in the ongoing conflict, which has... [Continue Reading]
Kim Jong Un and his teenage daughter, Kim Ju Ae, were pictured watching North Korea's latest cruise missile tests. [Continue Reading]
Dennis Richardson, a former head of Australia's peak intelligence agency, has resigned from his role as a special advisor to the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion. Established following the recent Bondi Beach terror attack, the commission aims to investigate issues surrounding the incident, including the responses by security agencies. Richardson's resignation has significant implications for the ongoing inquiry, particularly as the commission is set to deliver its interim report by the end of April. His departure raises questions about the commission's ability to effectively address the complexities surrounding antisemitism and societal cohesion in Australia. This royal commission was... [Continue Reading]
Today marks the release of significant documents related to Peter Mandelson's appointment as ambassador to the United States, a development underscored by ongoing investigations into his alleged misconduct. The UK government, under scrutiny following high-profile controversies, is expected to unveil a substantial number of files, although this will likely represent only a fraction of what parliament has demanded. Peter Mandelson, who previously held the role of business secretary, was arrested on 23 February on suspicions of misconduct in public office. The allegations accuse him of improperly passing sensitive information to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein during his time in government. While... [Continue Reading]
In a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Iran's military strategy continues to intensify as it adopts a "war of attrition" approach aimed at Israel and its allies in the Gulf region. Reports indicate that this strategy is executed through a series of drone assaults aimed at critical infrastructures, including oil facilities in Saudi Arabia and vital locations in the UAE. These developments have emerged in the second week of the ongoing conflict that has engulfed the region. Amid these developments, Israel has issued warnings of impending attacks, confirming that Iranian counterstrikes are becoming increasingly frequent. Over the... [Continue Reading]
North Korea has confirmed it conducted a cruise missile test from a newly commissioned naval destroyer, an event overseen by leader Kim Jong Un. This testing aims to evaluate the destroyer's capabilities, a move that underscores the reclusive state's ongoing efforts to enhance its military maritime strength. The missile launches were displayed prominently, aligning with North Korea's broader strategy to demonstrate its advanced military technology. According to reports, this testing signifies a continuation of North Korea's focus on maritime military exercises in response to regional tensions. The state's military development initiatives have been a focal point of its recent activities,... [Continue Reading]
In a tragic escalation of violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a drone attack in Goma has claimed the lives of at least three individuals. The incident occurred early on Wednesday morning at approximately 4am, within a residential neighborhood of the city. The city has been under the control of the M23 rebel group since January 2025, a situation that has contributed significantly to the region's ongoing instability. Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the M23-affiliated Congo River Alliance, accused the government of Kinshasa of orchestrating the attack. He stated on social media platform X that, “A drone attack is... [Continue Reading]
The governor of Alabama, Kay Ivey, has commuted the death sentence of 75-year-old Charles "Sonny" Burton just days before his scheduled execution. This decision comes after it was established that Burton did not pull the trigger in the crime for which he was convicted. He was sentenced to death in 1992 for his role as an accomplice in a robbery that resulted in the death of Doug Battle, a customer in a shop in Talladega, Alabama. Burton's involvement in the crime dates back to 1991 when he was one of six individuals participating in the robbery. During the incident, his... [Continue Reading]