In a significant development in the Syrian civil war, insurgents have entered the outskirts of Damascus, marking a dramatic escalation in the conflict. Led by Tahrir al-Sham, the rebels have seized control of key cities and are now targeting the capital. Their rapid advances have been aided by the distraction of Assad's allies. The situation has led to mass displacements, drawing international attention to the crisis.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has refuted claims that the BRICS countries are planning a shared currency, amidst warnings from US President-elect Donald Trump about potential tariffs. While discussions have focused on increasing local currencies in trade, political and economic hurdles remain significant. Experts emphasize the challenges in creating a common currency, highlighting ongoing reliance on existing financial institutions.
A documentary team has unearthed a potential clue to one of mountaineering's biggest mysteries: the fate of British climber Andrew Irvine, who disappeared with George Mallory on Everest in 1924. This find, rooted deeply in historical curiosity and modern forensic science, could rewrite the history of climbing, possibly recognizing Irvine and Mallory as the first to conquer Everest, decades before Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay.
In an unexpected escalation, Iran launched a substantial ballistic missile attack on Israel on October 1, 2024, in retaliation for killings of leaders from the Axis of Resistance by Israel. This aggressive strike involved 180 missiles targeting crucial locations, including Mossad headquarters. Despite advanced defenses, significant tensions have arisen, heightening fears of a broader conflict with global implications.
A military court in Butembo, located in North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has sentenced 25 soldiers to death for fleeing during a confrontation with M23 rebels. The soldiers faced charges of fleeing the enemy, wasting ammunition, and disobeying orders. This verdict follows earlier similar sentences and raises concerns about the lifting of the death penalty moratorium, last enforced in 2003.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine if Kyiv withdraws from occupied regions and drops its bid to join NATO. This proposition stands in contrast to Kyiv’s unwavering demand for the full withdrawal of Russian troops from its territory and its determination to join NATO.
Western diplomats have agreed to use income from confiscated Russian assets to support Ukraine in its conflict with Russia and post-war reconstruction. Disagreements exist between the U.S. and Europe on the distribution method. The G7 summit may see a final deal attempt by President Biden.
British TV doctor Michael Mosley, famous for promoting the 5:2 diet and intermittent fasting, has gone missing during a sailing trip in Symi, Greece. Authorities are investigating the circumstances of his disappearance. The situation has sparked widespread concern.
Southern Germany has been struck by severe floods, leaving at least four dead and causing widespread disruption, especially in Bavaria and Baden-Wuerttemberg. The heavy rain, which triggered the flooding over the weekend, has created a critical situation. Chancellor Olaf Scholz has emphasized the urgent need to address climate change in light of these recurring flood incidents.