Israel has announced the temporary reopening of the Rafah crossing with Egypt, which will allow limited movement of people in both directions, marking a significant development amidst ongoing violence in Gaza. This announcement comes on the heels of Israeli air strikes that resulted in the deaths of at least 12 Palestinians, including two boys, a pregnant woman, and eight police officers, according to local hospital authorities. The Rafah crossing has been a critical gateway for the movement of people and goods between Gaza and Egypt. Its closure, which was initially implemented due to the ongoing Iran war, has hampered humanitarian... [Continue Reading]
The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran has now progressed into its third week, marking a significant escalation in hostilities. Recent statements from US President Donald Trump reveal a complex situation where the administration's goals appear to shift frequently, creating uncertainty about both military strategy and diplomatic outcomes. As tensions rise, observers are closely analyzing how these developments will impact regional stability and global markets. Reports indicate that the war's impact is being felt well beyond the battlefield, notably reflected in rising crude oil prices. Currently, Brent crude oil has surpassed $100 per barrel, influenced by military actions... [Continue Reading]
The Arab League Council issued a strong denunciation against the Israeli authorities’ decision to keep Al-Aqsa Mosque closed to worshippers, particularly during the final and most sacred nights of Ramadan. This restriction prevents Muslims from performing essential religious rites at the site, which holds profound spiritual significance for over two billion believers worldwide. This closure is viewed by the League as a flagrant breach of international and humanitarian law and a violation of the historic status quo governing the mosque. The decision inflames religious and political tensions, as access to Al-Aqsa is a longstanding and highly sensitive issue within the... [Continue Reading]
Qatar has launched a significant humanitarian relief operation in Lebanon, providing urgent aid to 40,500 displaced families suffering from the effects of recent military operations and shelling, particularly in southern Lebanon, the southern suburbs of Beirut, and the Bekaa Valley. The escalation in violence has forced tens of thousands of civilian families to flee their homes and endure precarious conditions. The aid package includes more than 12,000 food baskets alongside essential non-food supplies, aiming to sustain displaced populations who face severe shortages amid ongoing insecurity. This relief is delivered through Qatar Charity and the Qatar Red Crescent Society, supported financially... [Continue Reading]
Under the proposed changes, there would be a five-fold reduction in the exposure limit for benzene, chlorine exposure would be reduced ten-fold, and silica exposure would be halved. [Continue Reading]
French voters cast ballots in municipal elections marred by low turnout on Sunday, in the last major test of the public mood ahead of next year’s all-important presidential election. The run-up to the vote was largely overshadowed by the Iran war and its fallout, notably the impact on fuel prices. [Continue Reading]
A war in Iran has led to a cost-of-living spike in Australia and as petrol prices rise, interest rates are likely to be next. [Continue Reading]
The ABC has spoken to more than half a dozen parents about their children's experience on Roblox following the Commonwealth's calls for an meeting with the platform amid reports of grooming and exposure to explicit content. [Continue Reading]
Gaza’s main gateway, the Rafah crossing with Egypt that was closed at the start of the Iran war, will open on Wednesday for limited movement of people in both directions, Israel’s COGAT, the military body in charge of humanitarian matters, said on Sunday. The crossing had reopened in early February after being largely shut since May 2024, in the early months of Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza. Its reopening offered some relief to Palestinians who want to leave Gaza for medical... [Continue Reading]
The government knew a harmful toxin had been found in its algal bloom, but took months to update its health advice. [Continue Reading]
More than 120 migrants, including at least 20 minors, were rescued in the central Mediterranean over the past 48 hours. [Continue Reading]
Wayne Rooney calls on Manchester United to give Michael Carrick the manager's job after boosting their hopes of Champions League qualification. [Continue Reading]
Two weeks after the US and Israel first struck Iran, Donald Trump's timeline and end goal for the war remain uncertain. [Continue Reading]
The NRC chief warns millions are fleeing and aid systems are being pushed beyond the breaking point. [Continue Reading]
This week in years past saw the first ever spacewalk, the Harbour Bridge opening and more importantly the premiere of Neighbours. Test your memory. [Continue Reading]
In the first season of The Piano, nobody quite knew what to expect. But what happens after you get the chance to play for a national audience? We catch up with some of the pianists to find out how music continues to shape their lives. [Continue Reading]
Readers discuss if Corrie is all that it used to be cracked up to be [Continue Reading]
Readers discuss conflict in the Middle East, the relationship between Trump and Starmer and human rights [Continue Reading]
Nearly month-long funding lapse has disrupted US air travel and caused long wait times amid security officers’ absencesThe CEOs of major US airlines urged Congress on Sunday to move quickly to end a 29-day partial government shutdown that has forced 50,000 airport security officers to work without pay, warning it could further disrupt US air travel.Absences by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers had already disrupted travel at some major airports over the previous week, raising alarm as the busy spring break travel season continues. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
All the talking points and in-depth analysis from the final round of the 2026 Six Nations. [Continue Reading]
Another day to forget for Spurs... [Continue Reading]
As the conflict with Iran expands and intensifies, President Trump’s options , to fight on, or to move toward declaring victory and pulling back , both carry deeply problematic consequences. [Continue Reading]
Iranians are finding tech-savvy ways to get through the regime's restrictions on phone and internet connections. [Continue Reading]
The United Kingdom is actively considering the deployment of advanced drone technology to the Middle East amid growing tensions following Iran's recent decision to close the critical Strait of Hormuz. This strategic move has been prompted by a request from the United States for its allies to bolster security in this vital shipping lane. The situation has escalated dramatically, influencing global oil prices and prompting urgent discussions among partner nations. Recent reports indicate that the UK military is exploring two types of interceptor drones that have proven effective against Iranian Shahed-type drones utilized by Russia during its conflict in Ukraine.... [Continue Reading]
New "vertical" units have been placed on bins across Melbourne, allowing collectors to more easily and safely retrieve bottles and cans for Victoria's Container Deposit Scheme. [Continue Reading]
‘Okay these flowers need to go right in the trash.' [Continue Reading]
Ministers from the UK government are currently in Brussels for discussions aimed at revitalising relations with the European Union, nearly a decade after the Brexit referendum. The timing aligns with what officials have termed "Brexit reset" week, characterized by a series of meetings and speeches intended to showcase the government's commitment to closer ties with the EU. Key figures include Nick Thomas-Symonds, the Cabinet Office Minister, who is leading the negotiations, accompanied by Europe Minister Stephen Doughty and Trade Minister Chris Bryant. On the agenda are talks at the joint EU-UK parliamentary partnership assembly, where the focus is expected to... [Continue Reading]
‘I did it for the people,’ says Farbod Mehr, of song drawing lyrics from the work of revolutionary 20th-century poet Aref QazviniA stirring song – sung, apparently, by a young woman, with lyrics expressing the hope that sacrifice will lead to a better future – has become a soundtrack for Iranians in the first part of 2026, as the country experienced the brutal crackdown on anti-regime protests and then the US-Israeli air assault, now in its third week.However, the singer, called Nava, is a product of artificial intelligence, created by a London-based artist of Iranian origin, Farbod Mehr. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Unofficial body co-chaired by ex-Labour leader says Britain failed to meet its duty to seek to prevent a genocideThe Labour government has been complicit in crimes committed by Israel in Gaza and in the desecration of international law, according to an unoffical tribunal on Gaza chaired by the former party leader Jeremy Corbyn and two specialists in international law.The tribunal’s findings to be published on Monday are likely to be cited in May’s local elections, in which Labour faces a rearguard action to beat off challenges from the Greens and Your Party, in part driven by anger that the government... [Continue Reading]
Nottinghamshire and Met police made arrests in past year, despite MPs voting to decriminalise in England and WalesVulnerable women in England are still being arrested and facing police investigations over suspected illegal pregnancy terminations, despite parliament backing changes to the law to decriminalise abortion.Responding to a freedom of information request, Nottinghamshire police and the Metropolitan police confirmed they had arrested women suspected of illegal terminations between June last year and this January. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
A target to identify financial support of fossil fuel industries harmful to the environment was unmet in Australia's self-assessment on its progress to meeting international biodiversity commitments. [Continue Reading]
Elizabeth Bennet step aside - it's Mary's time to shine. [Continue Reading]
It's not looking good. [Continue Reading]
It's grand final night on Dancing with the Stars and the final four contestants and their dance partners have the Glitterball Trophy in their grasp. Stay with us for all the action as it happens [Continue Reading]
The captain of the Iranian women’s football team which played in the Asian Cup in Australia has withdrawn her bid for asylum, state media said on Sunday, making her the fifth member of the delegation to change her mind. A former player and a Persian-language television channel based outside Iran said the players had been pressured to reverse their stance through threats against families back home. But Iranian authorities have in turn accused Australia of pressuring the players to stay. Captain... [Continue Reading]
The Council of Arab Information Ministers on March 15 urged Arab media organizations to adhere to official reports from Arab states affected by Iranian hostile actions. This includes a number of Gulf and Levant countries currently experiencing military assaults, threats, and provocations attributed to Tehran. The council emphasized that consistent, verified information is essential to combat deliberate misinformation and keep the Arab public accurately informed amidst escalating regional security concerns. The affected countries , Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, and Iraq , have faced a series of Iranian-led attacks and provocations, contributing to rising tensions in the... [Continue Reading]
Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Khulaifi, spoke with China’s Special Envoy on the Middle East, Zhai Jun, regarding recent military escalations in the region. The call highlighted serious concerns about the growing unrest’s impact on both regional and international security. During the discussion, Qatar strongly condemned Iranian attacks on its territory, labeling them unacceptable under any justification. The developments affect not only Qatar but also the broader Middle East where military tensions threaten stability and risk dragging neighboring countries into conflict. Qatar, which maintains a policy of distancing itself from regional disputes, reiterated... [Continue Reading]
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim received a phone call from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, who condemned ongoing hostile attacks targeting Qatar. President El-Sisi emphasized Egypt’s full solidarity with Qatar and offered various forms of support to help safeguard Qatar’s national security and sovereignty. This marks a reinforcement of diplomatic and security ties between the two Arab nations amid increasing regional tensions. Both leaders highlighted the critical need for intensified collective Arab action to strengthen regional security and stability during this volatile period. The conversation reflects growing concerns over persistent security threats affecting Gulf countries, likely linked to broader geopolitical conflicts... [Continue Reading]
Mayor's wife criticised for past work related to Palestine, while Mamdani's response rebuked by some supporters. [Continue Reading]
Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman and Egypt’s Foreign Minister Dr. Badr Abdelatty convened in Doha to address escalating military conflicts in the Middle East. They specifically condemned Iranian attacks on Qatari territory, labeling these actions unacceptable under any circumstances. The leaders called for peaceful resolutions to ongoing disputes and reinforced commitments to strengthen Arab unity in confronting regional threats. This high-level dialogue reflects growing concerns over Iran’s aggressive operations affecting Gulf security, directly impacting Qatar and nearby states. By coordinating closely, Qatar and Egypt aim to mitigate further military escalations that could destabilize key trade... [Continue Reading]
Kuwait’s military reported a significant surge in hostile drone incursions, detecting 14 drones violating its airspace in a single day. Eight of these drones were shot down, but debris caused material damage and minor injuries to three Kuwaiti soldiers, who are now in stable condition after treatment. The attacks included three drones targeting Kuwait International Airport, disrupting airport radar systems and raising security concerns over the vulnerability of critical infrastructure. The escalating drone activity highlights deteriorating tensions in the region, particularly amid rising Iranian hostility toward Kuwait. This wave of aerial incursions underscores the growing use of unmanned systems in... [Continue Reading]
In a recent phone call, Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi reiterated his country's strong condemnation of the continued hostile attacks against Qatar, signaling unwavering support for the Gulf state amid mounting security challenges. President El-Sisi emphasized Egypt’s readiness to provide different forms of assistance to safeguard Qatar's sovereignty and security. The conversation also highlighted the urgency of intensified efforts by Arab nations to enhance regional security and stability. Both leaders agreed on the importance of unified Arab action to counter threats and prevent escalation. Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani acknowledged Egypt’s solidarity and expressed his country’s dedication to... [Continue Reading]
She wrote about postpartum depression when it was an unmentionable like abortion or birth control, and her research on her own suffering helped countless women. [Continue Reading]
China and the US ended the first day of trade talks in Paris on Sunday without any major developments. Talks will continue tomorrow when the US delegation is set to leave. The Chinese delegation will stay one more day before leaving on Tuesday. The first day of the sixth round of trade talks between the world’s two biggest economies – led by Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent – was rather uneventful for journalists waiting outside the venue, the headquarters... [Continue Reading]
Pro-Palestinian protesters gather on one side of Thames as those backing US-Israel war on Iran meet on the otherTwelve people were arrested as hundreds joined a pro-Palestinian al-Quds Day demonstration on one side of the Thames, while hundreds more gathered on the opposite bank to back Israeli and American attacks on Iran.At least 1,000 police officers were drafted in to keep the two rival protests apart. Lambeth Bridge, the nearest river crossing to each rally, remained closed on Sunday afternoon. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Markwayne Mullin’s financial dealings take on new importance as the Senate considers his nomination to lead an agency whose budget has vastly expanded. [Continue Reading]
New information has emerged regarding the condition of the graves of Australian soldiers buried in Gaza, with independent senator David Pocock stating that the bodies "very likely" have been disturbed. This assertion follows the submission of new photographs to the Australian Senate, showcasing extensive damage inflicted by Israeli bulldozers on the cemetery containing the graves of those soldiers, dating back to the First World War. According to recent Senate estimates, approximately 146 out of 263 graves of Australian soldiers interred in Gaza have sustained damage. The documented damage includes shattered headstones and massive earth displacement, with soil being relocated to... [Continue Reading]