September 18, 2024

*) Israel 'fully responsible' for pager explosions: Hezbollah Lebanon's Hezbollah group blames Israel for the simultaneous explosion of pagers used by the group’s fighters that killed at least nine people. Calling the attacks a "major security breach,” the group says Israel will be punished. Lebanese authorities have urged citizens to dispose of their pagers immediately, while rescue teams work to aid the wounded. The incident has further escalated tensions, as the two nations are already engaged in a prolonged conflict. *) US envoy to UN scrambles to justify vetoes on Palestine's bids at UNSC US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, defended the use of the veto against Palestine in favour of Israel at the UN Security Council, stating that Washington uses its veto power to protect its interests and will not apologise for it. In response to questions about the impact of US vetoes on Gaza ceasefires and Palestinian statehood ahead of the UN General Assembly, she acknowledged the US respects the International Court of Justice, but criticised the Palestinian resolution demanding an end to Israel's presence in the occupied territories as flawed and unlikely to bring tangible benefits. *) Ursula von der Leyen unveils new team of European Commissioners - Link Ursula von der Leyen reveals her new team of European Commissioners, ending weeks of speculation. The most significant move has been the establishment of a new post aimed at strengthening the EU's defence. Former Lithuanian Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius has been appointed as the EU's Defence and Space Commissioner. Kubilius, a well-known hawk against Russia, focuses on bolstering military production and integrating Ukraine's military industry with the EU. *) Malian capital hit by rare militant attack - Link A surprise militant attack on a military airport and training centre in Bamako, the capital of Mali, has left the city on edge. Heavy gunfire was reported near the police station controlling access to the civilian airport. It's the first major assault of its kind in years. JNIM (Jay-neem), a group linked to Al Qaeda, claimed responsibility for the attack. While the army says the situation is under control, the full extent of the damage and casualties remains unclear. *) Oldest Sunday paper up for sale The world’s oldest Sunday paper, The Observer, might have a new owner soon. Its current owner, GMG, is in talks to sell it to online startup Tortoise Media. Founded in 1791, The Observer has been with GMG for over 30 years. If the sale goes through, The Guardian which is operating under GMG, will remain a 24/7 online publication with a global focus.