Tensions in Gaza Criticized by UK Deputy Prime Minister
David Lammy, the UK Deputy Prime Minister, has condemned the ongoing violence in Gaza, describing it as "inhumane" and "utterly unjustifiable" during his address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Lammy denounced the actions of Hamas and the conditions in Gaza under their rule, calling for an immediate end to the crisis. His remarks highlighted the torment endured by families and the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict.
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UN Security Council to Vote on Iran Sanctions
The United Nations Security Council is set to vote on the reimposition of sanctions on Iran following Russia's failed attempts to delay the process. European countries have rejected Iran's last-minute offers to grant limited access to nuclear sites, and Russia is unlikely to secure the nine necessary votes to defer the sanctions. This vote comes amidst heightened tensions over Iran's nuclear program.
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Trump Opposes Israeli Annexation of West Bank
In a surprising move, former US President Donald Trump has declared that he will not permit Israel to annex the West Bank, despite lobbying from far-right Israeli politicians. Trump stated, "There's been enough. It’s time to stop now," signaling his opposition to further territorial expansion and emphasizing the importance of maintaining prospects for a two-state solution.
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Business and Economics
Eni and Other Oil Giants Fined for Price Collusion
Italy's competition watchdog has imposed a record fine of €936 million on Eni and five other oil companies for colluding on fuel prices. This penalty is one of the largest imposed by a national regulator in Europe and underscores increasing scrutiny on corporate practices in the energy sector.
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Trump’s New Tariffs Shake Global Markets
Donald Trump has announced new tariffs targeting pharmaceuticals, heavy trucks, and kitchen cabinets, rattling global investors. Shares in UK pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca dropped 1.4% following the announcement, though analysts suggest the company may mitigate some impacts due to its existing US investments. The tariffs are part of Trump's broader economic strategy aimed at bolstering domestic industries.
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Abu Dhabi Royal Family Acquires Stake in TikTok US
The Abu Dhabi royal family is set to acquire a 15% stake in TikTok's US division through MGX, chaired by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as part of a deal brokered by Donald Trump. This agreement, valuing TikTok’s US business at $14 billion, grants MGX a seat on the company’s board and marks a significant strategic move in controlling social media operations in the United States.
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Environment and Climate
Super Typhoon Ragasa Causes Devastation
Super Typhoon Ragasa has wreaked havoc across Taiwan, Hong Kong, and southern China, with winds peaking at 165 mph. The storm resulted in 17 fatalities in Taiwan and caused widespread destruction before weakening as it moved toward Vietnam. The catastrophic impact underscores the growing frequency of extreme weather events linked to climate change.
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Rare Antarctic Phenomenon May Impact Australian Weather
A rare instance of sudden stratospheric warming over Antarctica could lead to hotter and drier conditions in southeastern Australia this summer, according to meteorologists. This phenomenon, which last occurred in 2019, contributed to the devastating Black Summer bushfires and raises concerns about potential climate-driven disasters.
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Sports
Aitana Bonmatí Joins Footballing Legends
Aitana Bonmatí, the Barcelona and Spain midfielder, has made history by becoming the first woman and only the third player, alongside Lionel Messi and Michel Platini, to win three consecutive Ballon d’Or awards. Bonmatí’s technical brilliance and football intelligence, honed at La Masia, have cemented her status as one of the sport's greats.
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Seahawks Secure Dramatic Victory Against Cardinals
The Seattle Seahawks triumphed over the Arizona Cardinals 23-20 in a thrilling NFL game. A 52-yard field goal by Jason Myers in the final seconds sealed the team’s eighth consecutive win against their NFC West rivals. Despite a strong fourth-quarter comeback by the Cardinals, the Seahawks managed to hold their lead.
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